From Dickens to Victory, Sherlock to the Mary Rose, why our German twins love Portsmouth

The partnership between Duisburg and Portsmouth began on July 11, 1950.

Seventy years ago there were emotional moments that touch more deeply than the current situation.

This inevitably includes the post-war experience and Captain Hutchinson's outstretched hand for reconciliation, which established the partnership in 1950.

The state visit to West Germany by the Queen in 1965 or nerve-racking West Germany v England football duels are stored in the collective memory of older Duisburgers.

The tremendous impact of the British music scene is just as unforgettable.

If you go deeper into history, you will find that there have been many phases in German-British relations that unfortunately fade in the fog of history.

Just think of the Duisburg-Hansa merchants and the Stalhof in London, Henry VIII and his wife Anna von Kleve, Gerhard Mercator, the great cartographer, and his awesome friend John Dee.

The English Queen Maria I and religious refugees who found refuge in Duisburg, Franz Haniel and James Watt Jr, the son of the English steam engine pioneer, who had to take a break with the Caledonia on the Rhine by Duisburg. There is so much that we do not yet know about the supposedly known relationship with the British.

So it is a good thing that Jürgen Hordt, the chairman of the German Portsmouth Friends, as an excellent connoisseur of the region, always includes unknown places around Portsmouth in the annual travel programme.

Trips to Hampton Court and Arundel Castle become idyllic longed-for destinations.

The fine humour at the traditional mayoral reception at Portsmouth Guildhall regularly creates a relaxed atmosphere. And many enjoy the high tea culture of the English.

What is often forgotten: English beer is top and there is also excellent wine in southern England. Not to forget the English luxury car brands.

In her dissertation, Dr Astrid Klooth, a member of Portsmouthfreunde, finds: ‘Courtesy, gentleman ideal and tradition fit so well with the Jaguar and Rover brands that Anglicisms are used as carriers of these stereotypes in German advertising.’

The reasons for the appreciation of British culture is varied: Because British humour is unique. Because Monty Python, Emma Peel and John Steed wonderfully reflect the preference for the absurd, weird and satirical.

Because their gardens and golf courses are so beautiful. Because the British made music history from Adele to Led Zeppelin.

Because Portsmouth writers like Conan Doyle (Sherlock Holmes) and Charles Dickens (Oliver Twist, David Copperfield) also delight German readers.

Because the Historic Dockyard is the largest naval museum in the world.

Because the sailing area in the Solent has a worldwide reputation.

Because a trip from Portsmouth to the Isle of Wight by hovercraft is exceptional.

Because the ruins of Bodiam Castle are particularly impressive.

Because the Salisbury and Wells cathedrals are architectural wonders.

Because news reports about the royals find a large audience.

All of this and much more strengthen the friendship between the two cities.

Although the planned anniversary celebration has been postponed because of the Covid-19 crisis. Despite all the current adversities, one is optimistic about the future: ‘Always look on the bright side of life.’